Down On Jackson

Magic The insider The inside stuff

April 12, 1990|By Barry Cooper of The Sentinel Staff

WHEN IT was first rumored that LSU guard Chris Jackson would leave school and make himself eligible for the NBA draft, Orlando Magic General Manager Pat Williams told reporters, ''If Chris Jackson comes out, you get your guard (Jackson) now and worry about a center later.'' It appears now that few NBA experts feel that way, including Williams. The NBA draft is such guesswork that the opinion of scouts changes almost weekly. The feeling held by many scouts - and apparently by the Magic - is that Jackson may not be ready for the NBA, and that his height, 6 feet, may be a disadvantage. Said one scout: ''Who's he going to guard?'' In addition, the Magic are said to be concerned about Jackson's ballhandling and ability to penetrate. Of course, that assessment could change by draft day. By the way, although he has announced he is turning pro, Jackson has not officially notified the NBA. He has until May 13 to do so.

SCHINTZIUS IS NO. 1

IF THE draft were today and they had the No. 1 pick, the Magic would choose former Florida Gators center Dwayne Schintzius, mostly because Williams loves the guy. While Schintzius was practicing for the Orlando All-Star Classic this week, Williams was overheard to mumble, ''best passing center since Bill Walton.'' That is lofty praise.